Fig Tree as a Weed?

Question

In an area near my front door, I used to have a ficus tree that we took out because it got too big. There are still geraniums in the same area.

Last year, a fig tree started growing there, and we did not plant it! I just read that a fig tree's root system can spread as much as 50 feet, so I'm concerned it's growing under the house. So far this season, the tree (bush) has gone from about a foot in height and diameter to about 3 feet in height and 5 feet in diameter.

Has anyone had this occur, specifically with fig trees, and what did you do? Should I try to remove it now, or is this something that I'll have to do repeatedly? The fig tree is a much larger tree than a ficus (and a fig is a type of ficus) and I really don't want it growing here.

From the research I've done, it's an edible fig.

Answer 1

Edible Fig or Ornamental fig? They are both in the Ficus genus. Just curious.

Keep cutting back the tree, letting it get to 3 feet before cutting allows it to regain strength. By continually chopping it back when still very small, you wear out the stored food energy. You can also try painting the cuts with Roundup with each cutting, but I doubt that will be successful due to Ficus' latex ooozing.........but it might work. The Roundup must be the undiluted formula not the ready to spray. And you must paint it on, not spray least you get it on nearby plants...and frankly you couldn't spray the thick mixture.

By the end of the growing season you can try digging out whatever stump remains. I wouldn't be surprised if the plant continues to reappear from time to time. Just keep after it.

As for growing under the house, probably not. Roots need oxygen so under the house isn't an option. Normally they grow around the house foundation where condensation is present as well as surface oxygen.

Answer 2

yes you should and check your neighbourhood, because if it's under the house it could cause problems with the plumbing and stuff.